ETIQUETTE ON THE RANGE

There are unspoken rules of etiquette within our shooting community that should be observed at the range. Sometimes you don’t find out about them until you have done something wrong and are on the receiving end of some harsh criticism. To save you from having to learn the hard way, here are seven ways you can be a respected shooter the first time – and every time – you walk into the range.

Travel smart. Etiquette begins in the parking lot. Keep all guns cased and empty unless you are actively using them for concealed or open carry. Do not handle your firearms directly while you are outside.

Be friendly. The range employees are there to help you and make sure that you have a safe experience. Remember that their job requires them to keep an eye out for problem customers, so make sure that you present yourself in a friendly and approachable manner at all times.

Dress for success. At the range this means wearing the appropriate clothing and footwear, but most importantly it means coming prepared with the right ear and eye protection. Research beforehand the best eyes and ears for the venue, the kind of guns you plan to shoot, and your own personal needs.

Respect the 180. Always adhere to the 180 Rule. Unpack your gun with the muzzle pointing in a safe direction (our pistol pouches and Bench Bags help with that), and avoid clutter at your station so you can safely pick it up and put it down. Keep each gun in slidelock and pointed in a safe direction while not in use.

Keep it simple. You’re there to build your skills, not to impress anyone, so work on shooting one gun well instead of being mediocre at 10 different guns. If you want to work with more than one firearm, dedicate a specific period of time to each one. Plan your practice and use a journal to keep track of your progress and budget your ammo.

Don’t be a jerk. Failing to follow all of the safety rules isn’t the only way to get a bad reputation at the range. Arguing with staff, refusing to take correction, and acting like a know-it-all are all behaviors that you should avoid.

Pack up and leave safely. When you’re done shooting, don’t rush to get out. You may be tired or still have adrenaline in your system, either of which can cause you to miss safety steps. Take it slow and pay close attention to how you pack up your guns.

Even if you aren’t a great shooter right out of the gate, keeping these seven guidelines in mind will help you to earn respect. Demonstrating yourself to be a responsible and disciplined person is the best way to ensure that you will be welcomed with open arms by the shooting community, with all of the helpful advice and friendly competition that that involves.

A Girl & A Gun Women’s Shooting League (AG & AG) is a shooting club established by women shooters for women shooters. AG & AG events are intended to be fun, social gatherings where women can come together for support, encouragement, ask questions in a safe and nonjudgmental environment, improve on their marksmanship, and bond together in the shooting community.
https://www.agirlandagun.org/